In Spain, how do I challenge a neighbour’s false complaint that got me fined by the council?

Listen, if that council fine is based on a neighbor's lie, you have a strong case, but you must act fast. In Spain, a private citizen’s word does not have the 'presumption of truth' like a police officer's does.

Here is your 3-step battle plan:

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   Don’t Pay Yet: Paying usually gets you a 50% discount but kills your right to appeal. If you want to fight, you must choose to appeal (impugnar).

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   The 20-Day Window: You have 20 days to submit Alegaciones (Defense). Request the full file (expediente) to see their 'proof.' If they have no photos or official police reports, their claim is weak.

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   Prove the Negative: Gather your evidence—GPS logs showing you weren't home, witness statements from other neighbors, or timestamped photos. If you prove they lied, you can later counter-sue them for Harassment or Slander under the Penal Code.

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